Flexible working on employees’ quality of work life: the role of locus of control through psychological perspective

The artificial intelligence (AI) revolution has arrived. Thus, exploring the interaction mechanism of flexible working on employees’ quality of work life has a paramount practical significance, considering the new trend in the development of future working patterns. We draw on psychological empowerment theory and boundary theory to delve deeper into the intricate links between flexible working, boundary control, psychological empowerment, and employees’ quality of work life. Two stage survey using data from 232 employees in China and conducted hierarchical regression to analysis our proposed model. The results indicate that flexible working has a positive impact on employees’ quality of work life by enhancing their boundary control and psychological empowerment. This impact is moderated by employees’ different locus of control types. As a result, our study provides valuable perspectives for theoretical research into how flexible working affects employees’ quality of work life. It also suggests relevant management recommendations for organizations and employees.